I remember the chair in the corner, the smell that lingered in the air which I now know was from his cigarette smoke, strong and pungent but I loved it, it was him. Capstan full strength 

His smile and his eyes that sparkled, full of humour and intelligence. His old rocking chair which held me for so many hours. The book that always lay down by his side. 

My earliest memory is of my Grandad, sitting on his armchair having him read me book after book. Teaching me about the world and how wonderful it could be.

I miss him so much, his desire was for me to be the best person I could be. His constant reminder to be good to others, to treat them as you want to be treated. 

I remember him teaching me play cards, I was a card shark at four, taking on the pensioners around the pubs table.

I remember him teaching me to question. His favourite saying “the only stupid question is the one you don’t ask” is what I have passed on to my girls.

He gave me the freedom to dream.

He challenged me to think beyond the normal. 

Encouragement, trust, faith and love, these are my earliest memories.

These are my Grandad.